Despite Japan earthquake, ‘Topcon’s operation never stops’

Topcon Positioning Systems (TPS) is working closely with Topcon Corporation in Tokyo and supporting efforts of all Topcon subsidiaries in response to the major earthquake and ensuing tsunami that hit Japan on March 11.

In an official statement from Topcon Corporation on March 17, it was stated:

“Topcon Corporation and its group companies express our heartfelt sympathy to the victims and their families who suffered and are still suffering from the major earthquake and tsunami. We sincerely hope for safety and swift recovery of the people and areas affected by this disaster.”

The company said the entire Topcon group is “committed to support recovery of these areas as much as possible.”

Takashi Yokokura, CEO and president of Topcon Corporation, said, “I am working diligently with my staff to overcome this tough time. Topcon’s domestic manufacturing facilities including Topcon Headquarters, Topcon Yamagata Co., Ltd. (Yamagata, Yamagata Prefecture), OPTONEXUS Co., Ltd. (Tamura, Fukushima Prefecture), and Fukushima Sokkia Co., Ltd. (Nishishirakawa, Fukushima Prefecture), Matsuda factory have recovered from the initial shock inflicted by the earthquake and tsunami. All of them are already in operation. Thus far, our factories are not affected by the problem related to the nuclear power plant.

“There might be some rumors in the market. However, please feel steady. Topcon’s operation never stops.”

He also said, “In the meantime, I would like to inform you that Topcon already has started to provide support to the area in which the earthquake and tsunami hit hardest. It may take a long time but Japan will recover.”

Topcon Corporation pledged 50 million Yen (about $650,000), which includes a cash donation, as well as GPS-based and conventional surveying equipment to relief agencies.

In addition, TPS and Sokkia, along with other Topcon America companies, have pledged a substantial amount of products to significantly assist in the recovery, clean-up and rebuilding efforts, and are exploring other ways we can assist the Japanese people.

Ray O’Connor, TPS president and CEO, said, “’How can I help?’ is a question we hear daily from our employees. In times of crisis, the human spirit shines through and today is no different.

“The Topcon family is committed to helping the people in Japan. In a show of support, Topcon America and its subsidiaries have made plans for employees to assist in this effort.”

The employees of TPS and Sokkia are joining other Topcon America employees in a company-wide donation system where they can contribute directly by check, or by payroll deduction over several weeks. The company will make additional donations to the program to match the total value donated by the employees.

O’Connor said, “The TPS family is relieved and thankful there were no casualties to Topcon employees. There was no major damage to any Topcon facilities, including the Topcon Corporation headquarters in Tokyo.”

In addition to our employees, he said, “we are receiving offers of assistance from dealers, vendors, customers and stakeholders in Topcon. It is indeed gratifying to see members of the Topcon family respond with this degree of support.”

Concerning the Japan disaster, O’Connor also said, “Our thoughts and prayers are with all Topcon employees and families in Japan, as well as the entire nation.” He said it was an inspiration to see a nation working together to overcome such hardship; it is a difficult time but a very proud time to be Japanese.

“The Japanese people are showing the world great dignity and strength. We all have a lot to learn from their example.”